How do I prune a palm tree?

Palms grow differently from shade trees. The fronds are the palm's food factory, so cutting green ones weakens it. The safe rule is to take off only fronds that are completely brown and hanging down.

Never cut into the crown or the growing point at the top of the trunk. A palm has one main growing bud, and if it is damaged the palm usually dies. Heavy trimming leaves a thin and stressed palm that is easier for pests and disease to hurt.

Dirty tools can spread palm diseases from one tree to the next, so clean your blade between trees. Climbing a tall palm is dangerous, and falling fronds are heavy. Do not climb or use a chainsaw yourself. Call an insured tree service that knows palms.